Responses of family businesses to extreme seasonality in demand: the case of Bornholm, Denmark

This research examines the meaning and impacts of "extreme" seasonality of tourist demand on family businesses in the tourism and hospitality industry, and how owners strategically adapt. Data were obtained from a self-completion questionnaire and interviews with family business owners on the Danish Island of Bornholm. Revealed strategies were categorized as "coping" with or "combating" seasonality, and in some cases the possibility of terminating the business or "capitulating". Most responses to extreme seasonality have profound implications for family life as well as business growth or viability. Implications are drawn for family businesses and for destinations. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.